Football/Soccer Session (Moderate): Shooting & Finishing Camp Day 2

2 v 1 In The Box (20 mins)

Setup:

• Create two wide channels on either side of the goal area.

• Use one defender (blue) in front of goal and two attackers (red) outside the channels, with a central attacker starting with the ball.

How It Works:

• The middle red player initiates the play by passing to either wide teammate.

• Once the pass is made, both the passer and the opposite-side player make dynamic runs into the box.

• The wide player who receives the ball delivers a cross into the box.

• The single defender must track and defend both runners, creating a live 2v1 finishing challenge.

• Players reset quickly for the next rep. After a few reps, rotate roles.

Coaching Points:

• Emphasize timing of runs, body shape when finishing, and ball quality from wide players.

• Challenge defenders to improve positioning and anticipation.

• Encourage attackers to stay creative, mixing near-post/far-post runs.

Progression Options:

• Allow wide players to cut inside and shoot.

• Add a recovering second defender starting from behind.

• Switch to 1-touch finish only after the cross.

Make A Move, Shoot (20 mins)

Setup:

• Place mannequins, poles, or cones at the edge of the box to simulate defenders.

• Players are split into multiple lines, each approaching goal from a different angle.

How It Works:

• First player in each line dribbles directly at the cone, simulating a 1v1.

• Just before reaching the cone, the player executes a move (scissors, step-over, chop, etc.) to beat the "defender" left or right.

• After the move, player takes a shot on goal.

• After shooting, player retrieves their ball and rotates into a different line to work on finishing from a new angle.

Coaching Points:

• Emphasize tight control and explosiveness on the change of direction.

• Encourage variety in moves and quick decisions.

• Focus on accuracy over power when finishing from angles.

• Goalkeepers should stay active, adjusting angles as attackers approach from new sides.

Progressions:

• Limit to weaker foot finishes.

• Set a time limit: 2 touches max after beating the cone before the shot.

Freeplay (20 mins)

Setup: Set up a realistic, age-appropriate scrimmage using the full or half field depending on group size. Ensure goalkeepers are involved. Teams can rotate if needed or play with neutrals to balance numbers.

How It Works:

• Divide players into even teams.

• Play a standard game-like scenario with all rules in effect.

• Let them play freely, encouraging communication, positioning, and application of earlier session themes.

• Adjust field size, number of touches, or rules as needed to keep tempo high and ensure engagement.

Coaching Focus:

• Observe real-game behaviors (shape, spacing, transitions).

• Let the game flow with limited stoppages unless key teachable moments arise.